Great White Sharks May Be Classified as Endangered

California will conduct an investigation as to whether great white sharks should be added to the endangered species list.

The California Fish and Game Commission made the great white shark an endangered species candidate last month, reports the Associated Press. The organization will conduct a one-year investigation to determine the sea predator’s classification, during which the great white will be treated as endangered. While great white sharks are already protected throughout the world, the new classification will prohibit fisherman from accidentally catching them and make researchers get permission from the Department of Fish and Wildlife before they attach tags to the animals for data purposes. Some fisherman oppose the bill, claiming that more restrictions are unnecessary and great white sharks are not in danger.